Drought conditions not as bad for coastal NC

NEW HANOVER COUNTY -- Just one day after Gov. Mike Easley's plea for state officials to take action on drought conditions we're learning that the coastal region of North Carolina isn't suffering just yet with regard to water loss.
We haven't seen considerable rainfall in months. Much of the state is experiencing the worst drought in recorded history.
In New Hanover and Brunswick County the threat of water restrictions isn't doing enough to get people to conserve water. Much of our water and water from surrounding counties is drawn from the Cape Fear River.
Water levels of the Cape Fear are decreasing. However, officials say it will be some time before we have an extreme emergency.
Brunswick County Director of Utilities Jerry Pierce said, "The amount of water that Brunswick County is using out of that 180 million gallons of water that flowing over that lock and dam is only seven percent of the total volume. So yes, we are concerned and we are monitoring it, but at this point in time we feel comfortable that the stage-one conservation alert is where we should be, but if conditions change we are ready to make additional requirements mandatory."
There are some things officials want you to keep in mind. Check for dripping faucets and running toilets that waste water. Watering your lawns daily isn't necessary, so limiting irrigation use during peaks hours between six a.m. to ten a.m. and from four p.m. to six p.m.
Also, try to use appliances like dishwashers and washing machines only when absolutely necessary.
Overall officials want everyone to make it a point to use water wisely.

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